Colorado is a state located in the Western United States. Colorado is the 8th largest state by area and the 22nd most populous state in the United States. Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery, as well as its bustling cities and towns. Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a major cultural and economic center for the state. Other major cities in Colorado include Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Lakewood.

Colorado is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. According to Wikipedia, The Rocky Mountains run through the state, providing Colorado with its iconic mountain views. Some of the best places to see the Rocky Mountains in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. In addition to its natural beauty, Colorado is also home to several interesting and historic towns and cities. No matter what interests you, Colorado has something to offer. Here are the 20 best places to visit in Colorado.

20. Great Sand Dunes National Park

You’ll find the tallest dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park. The park is located in southern Colorado, near the town of Alamosa. Visitors can explore the dunes on foot, sand sled, or camel (yes, there are camels in Colorado!). The dunes are constantly changing, so no two visits are the same. You can go hiking, horseback riding, or camping in the park when you’re not playing in the sand. This is a must-see spot for anyone visiting Colorado, as it is unlike anywhere else in the world.

19. Telluride

Do you like spending your vacations in the mountains? If so, you’ll love Telluride. This lovely little town is nestled in the southwest Colorado San Juan Mountains. It’s a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. According to Travelusnews, There are also plenty of great shops and restaurants to enjoy. Telluride is definitely one of the best places to visit in Colorado if you’re looking for a breathtaking mountain town.

18. Rocky Mountain National Park

You can explore more than 350 miles of hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as take scenic drives and photograph the wildlife. You might even spot a moose. You can watch the sunrise from above the clouds at Trail Ridge Road, the country’s highest paved road. And don’t miss Sprague Lake, a beautiful spot for a picnic. The park is open all year round, but the best time to visit is between June and September when the weather is milder.

17. Breckenridge

Have even more fun in the snow at this world-famous ski resort town, which is also home to great shops, restaurants, and galleries. In the summer, don’t miss out on the chance to go hiking or mountain biking in the stunning surroundings. For unforgettable views, you can also take a scenic gondola ride up to the top of Breckenridge Ski Resort that runs all year. If you’re a beer lover, be sure to check out Breckenridge Brewery, one of the most popular in the state.

16. Aspen

Aspen is a popular tourist destination known for its luxurious ski resorts, as well as its lively nightlife and vibrant arts scene. The picturesque town situated in a beautiful mountain setting is also home to many celebrities. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, while hiking, mountain biking, and golf are popular activities in the summer months. You can also explore the many art galleries, shops, and restaurants in Aspen or take a scenic gondola ride to get a birds-eye view of the area.

15. Denver

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is an outdoor city with a vibrant nightlife scene. The Rocky Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for the city, which is home to several art galleries, museums, and parks. Denver is a great choice if you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, there’s something for everyone in Denver. If you’re visiting during the winter, be sure to check out the city’s world-famous ski resorts.

14. Colorado Springs

If you like the great outdoors, then you’ll love Colorado Springs. Situated at the base of Pikes Peak, this city is a nature lover’s paradise, with tons of hiking and biking trails, plus a variety of parks and gardens to explore. For a dose of culture, check out the city’s many museums and art galleries, or catch a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. And, of course, no visit to Colorado Springs would be complete without a trip to the top of Pikes Peak.

13. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Are you a music lover? If you are, you’ll definitely want to check out the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. This is a truly unique place to see a concert. The amphitheater is nestled between red rock formations, providing an unforgettable experience and backdrop for any show. The area is still worth exploring, even if you’re not a music fan. The park has hiking trails with stunning views, picnic areas, and even a Visitor’s Center.

12. Strawberry Park Hot Springs

If you’re in the mood to relax and rejuvenate, look no further than Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Tucked away in a beautiful forest near Steamboat Springs, these natural hot springs are the perfect place to unwind. There are several pools of varying temperatures to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your needs. The scenery is absolutely stunning, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a soak in nature.

11. Crested Butte

Do you like to ski or snowboard? If so, Crested Butte is the place for you. This mountain town is home to some of Colorado’s best skiing and snowboarding. There are also plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The wildflowers in Crested Butte are also a sight to behold. They bloom in the summer and attract visitors from all over the world. This makes the long trails even more enjoyable to hike. When you visit Crested Butte, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world.

10. Vail

You never want to leave once you get to Vail. It’s one of North America’s largest and most popular ski resorts, so there’s plenty to do both on and off the slopes. The mountain village is as quaint and charming as they come, with plenty of shopping and dining options. And in the summer, you can enjoy golfing, hiking, and biking. Also, you can’t miss a trip to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, one of the highest botanical gardens in the world.

9. Explore the Old Mining Town of Cripple Creek

The town is a popular tourist destination, with many casinos and hotels. The town is located in the foothills of the Rockies and was once a booming mining town. Today, it is a great place to explore the old west, with its many historic buildings and gold mines. A few activities keep you busy, from visiting the casinos, exploring the old mines, and hiking in the beautiful scenery. It is also great to enjoy the nightlife, with its many bars and nightclubs.

8. Boulder

Do you like to hike? Climb? Mountain bike? Or just stroll around enjoying the views? Boulder is your ideal destination. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, you’re bound to have good weather for your outdoor activities. The city is home to the University of Colorado, which means there’s a vibrant college-town feel, with plenty of things to do, both on and off campus. There are more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails in Boulder, so you can get away from it all without going too far. If you want to explore the area without all the physical activity, you can drive the Peak to Peak Highway, which offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

7. Castle Rock

The old west town of Castle Rock is located in the perfect spot to be a base camp for all sorts of outdoor activities. According to Travellersworldwide, hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are all easily accessible, and there are plenty of options for those looking for a more relaxed vacation. The town is small but quaint, with various shops and restaurants to explore. And don’t forget to check out the famous Castle Rock Outlets for great deals. It’s the perfect place to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle and enjoy peace and quiet.

6. Visit Mesa Verde National Park

This national park should definitely be on your bucket list if you love getting outdoors and learning about history. You can explore more than 600 cliff dwellings that were created and built by the Ancestral Pueblo people. The most popular site in the park is undoubtedly Cliff Palace, which was home to around 100 people at its peak. Other notable sites include Balcony House and Spruce Tree House. In addition to the ancient ruins, Mesa Verde National Park also offers stunning views of the surrounding Colorado Plateau. There are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities in the park, so you can really make a weekend of it. Just be sure to bring your camera – you will want to remember this trip for a lifetime.

5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Do you like hiking, camping, or just spending time in nature? Then you’ll love the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Colorado, and it’s a great place to visit any time of year. There are plenty of things to do in the park, including hiking, camping, fishing, and bird watching. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go rock climbing or rafting. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

4. Garden of the Gods

Substantially located within Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark with unique geological formations. The area is free to enter and explore and offers several trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. According to Thrillist, there are also opportunities for rock climbing, picnicking, and camping. The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is also worth a visit and features several interactive exhibits.

3. Dinosaur National Monument

If you love history, you’ll definitely want to check out Dinosaur National Monument. This place is home to some of the best-preserved dinosaur fossils in the world, making it a must-see for any dino lover. From the Quarry Visitor Center, you can see over 1,500 fossils unearthed from the site. You can also take a hike through the park to see some of the most stunning views in Colorado.

2. Hot Sulphur Springs

Sometimes we just need to relax and rejuvenate, and there’s no better place to do that than Hot Sulphur Springs. This quaint little town is home to several hot springs, perfect for soaking in after a long day of exploring. There are a variety of different springs to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. The sulfur in the water is said to have detoxifying properties, and the hot water can help relieve muscle pain. If you’re looking for a truly relaxing experience, Hot Sulphur Springs is the perfect place to visit.

1. Maroon Bells

It is hard to believe that such beauty exists worldwide, but the Maroon Bells prove it. These twin peaks are located in the Elk Mountains of Colorado and some of North America’s most photographed mountains. According to Travellemming, The Maroon Bells are a must-see for anyone visiting Colorado. The area has many activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. You can enjoy the views from one of the many scenic overlooks accessible by car.

Conclusion

When it comes to amazing places to visit, Colorado definitely tops the list. From its stunning Rocky Mountain scenery to its vibrant city life, there is something for everyone in this great state. And, with so many incredible places to choose from, it can be tough to narrow it down to just a few. So, if you’re planning a trip to Colorado, check out the list above of the 20 best places to visit. From world-renowned ski resorts to charming small towns, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next vacation. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today.